H Upmann The Banker Annuity 52x6 sampler pack (5)

The H. Upmann The Banker Annuity in the 5" x 52 Robusto format is a cornerstone of "The Banker" series, a line dedicated to the world of high finance with a focus on full-bodied, Nicaraguan-powered blends. A sampler pack containing five of these cigars offers an excellent opportunity to fully appreciate this robust smoke or to share with fellow enthusiasts.

Quick Facts:

• Brand: H. Upmann (Non-Cuban, produced by Altadis U.S.A.)

• Series: The Banker

• Vitola: Robusto

• Size: 5 inches x 52 Ring Gauge

• Pack: Sampler (Typically 5 cigars)

• Origin: Honduras (Likely made at the Flor de Copan factory)

• Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano

• Binder: Nicaraguan

• Filler: Nicaraguan

• Strength: Medium to Full

Detailed Breakdown

Pre-Light Experience:

• Appearance & Feel: The Annuity Robusto is a stout, solidly built cigar. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper is a medium to dark brown with a rich, oily sheen and a smooth, seamless roll. It feels dense and heavy in the hand, promising a rich smoke. The band features the distinctive "The Banker" design, often in gold and black, evoking a sense of wealth and power.

• Aroma: The wrapper gives off scents of cedar, rich earth, and leather. The foot presents a more potent aroma of dark chocolate, espresso, and a significant peppery spice.

• Cold Draw: Once cut, the cold draw is excellent and reveals initial flavors of cedar, roasted nuts, and a distinct black pepper that tingles on the tongue.

Tasting Notes & Flavor Profile:

This Robusto delivers a concentrated, full-flavored experience that embodies the core character of "The Banker" line.

• First Third: The cigar begins with a bold and spicy entrance. Immediate flavors of black pepper and earthy notes are prominent, quickly settling to reveal a core of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and cedar. The strength is a solid medium-full from the start, with a peppery finish that lingers on the palate.

• Second Third: The profile deepens and becomes more nuanced. The initial pepper recedes, integrating into the blend. Flavors of leather and cashew emerge, complementing the persistent espresso and cocoa notes. The smoke is thick and creamy, showcasing excellent balance.

• Final Third: The cigar finishes powerfully. The body remains full, with notes of espresso, bittersweet chocolate, and a return of the spicy pepper dominating. The finish is long and satisfying, with a significant nicotine strength that provides a classic, full-bodied conclusion.

Construction & Burn:

• Construction: Impeccable. The draw is perfect, allowing for a generous volume of cool, flavorful smoke. The cap is well-applied and cuts cleanly.

• Burn: The burn line is typically sharp and even, requiring no touch-ups. It burns steadily and cool from start to finish.

• Ash: The ash is tight, firm, and a pale gray color, holding on for an inch or more before needing to be tapped off.

The Sampler Pack Advantage

A 5-pack sampler is an ideal way to purchase this cigar because it:

• Allows for Consistency Checking: Smoking multiple cigars from the same batch confirms the blend's consistency and quality.

• Provides Multiple Enjoyment Opportunities: It's perfect for having a few on hand for when the mood for a full-bodied smoke strikes.

• Offers Value: Sampler packs often provide a better per-cigar price than buying a single stick.

Overall Impression & Summary

The H. Upmann The Banker Annuity Robusto is a bold, sophisticated, and powerful smoke that lives up to the financial theme of its name. It's a solid investment for the enthusiast who appreciates a Nicaraguan-forward profile.

Who is this cigar for?

• The smoker who enjoys full-bodied, flavorful cigars like the other cigars in The Banker line.

• Someone looking for a shorter, more concentrated version of the larger Banker vitolas.

• A perfect choice for a post-dinner smoke that delivers substantial strength and rich flavors of coffee, cocoa, and spice.

• Not recommended for beginners due to its significant strength.

In short, the 5-pack of The Banker Annuity offers a bundle of reliable, powerfully rewarding smokes that justify their name—a consistent payout of rich, complex flavor.